A variety of cultural fun for everyone

The State Fair

“Always in Tampa, Always in February” announces the annual Florida State Fair — a salute to the best of the agricultural industries of our state, along with an incredible array of entertainment, crafts, music, rides, food and fun for 12 days, from Feb. 10 to Feb. 21. When the fair began in 1905, the exhibits were displayed in one building, but by 1976, the fair moved to its current 355-acre site at Interstate 4 and Highway 301 outside of Tampa. Now in its 107th year, the Florida State Fair contributes $171 million annually to the economy of Florida and hosts 100,000 square feet of exhibit space. From the Racing Pigs and Sea Lion Splash to the Helicopter Trapeze Thrill Show, the Ranch Rodeo and Circus Hollywood, the State Fair is down-home, get-the-family-together fun and entertainment. The fair is located at 4800 Highway 301. Call 813-621-7821 or 800-345-3247.

Ballet as a battle of the sexes

One year ago, Orlando Ballet served notice that it had acquired a new artistic director, one who was going to create a company of world-premiere choreography that is edgy, contemporary and unforgettable. One year later — just in time for Valentine’s Day — the power struggle between the sexes is the subject of Battle of the Sexes II, the much-anticipated sequel to last year’s debut performance. Do not miss the amazing company that has grown under the direction of Robert Hill, and do not miss the performances set for Feb. 11-13 at the Bob Carr. Passionate and pulsating are words to describe Hill’s choreography. Add the welcome return of dancer Israel Rodriguez and a new work by William Marshall Ellis — originally created in collaboration between the ballet and Cirque du Soleil — to this evening of bravura dance. “We aim to intrigue our patrons with a blend of classical ballet with a sexy twist,” Hill said. Tickets start at an affordable $15. Call 407-426-1739 or visit orlandoballet.org

‘The Music of Richard Rodgers’

We have two chances to enjoy the artistry of the Orlando Philharmonic as it presents the musical genius of Richard Rodgers in a program called “My Favorite Things — The Music of Richard Rodgers.” On Saturday, Feb. 19, at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m., the concerts are part of the orchestra’s aptly named “Super Series,” because they do this kind of concert exceptionally well. Conductor Christopher Wilkins said, “Melodic genius is a special kind and only a very few composers have ever had it. Rodgers was one of them, his talent earning him several Tonys, Oscars, Grammys, Emmys and a Pulitzer.” Music from “Oklahoma,” “South Pacific,” “Carousel” and “The Sound of Music” will be performed. In other words, it’s a program of the most beautiful and memorable music of all time, and as a wonderful “bonus,” some of those songs will be sung by the talented singer/actress Michelle Knight. Remember — there are only two performances, and they take place at the Bob Carr. Call 407-770-0071 or visit www.orlandophil.org

A novel performance

The characters of Jane Austen’s “Pride and Prejudice” have been interpreted in movies by the greatest actors of generations. Now, the Orlando Shakespeare Theater, at 812 E. Rollins St., will present the novel as a romantic comedy, with all the wit and romance of Austen’s “classic” coming to life in a fast-paced new adaptation by Jon Jory. In a society in which pretense, manners and class — as determined by birth — mean everything, can the proud but independent Elizabeth and the handsome — and “high-born” — Mr. Darcy find true and lasting love? In addition to the evening performances, a “chat-back” will take place at Barnes & Noble on Feb. 17 at 5 p.m. (call 407-894-6024 for information). Later, a “Mock Trial: Darcy V. Wickham” will take place on Tuesday, March 1, at 5:30 p.m. “Pride and Prejudice” the play will run at the Orlando Shakespeare Theater through March 20. For tickets, call 407-447-1700 or visit OrlandoShakes.org